Antique 24 carat gold earrings set with rubies. Made in Himachal Pradesh, in the Himalaya area of northwestern India at least 100 years ago. 2 inches long, excluding the loops and weigh a whopping 43.2 grams together. Stunning earrings. Due to their exceptional size and weight it has been suggested that they should be used as lavaliers or pendants on a necklace. Egg shaped with a raised border / plate on both sides. The surface has extraordinary applied filigree and repousse decoration - scrolls, flowers, buds, granulation. Bottom of one side is set with a gemstone that tests as a genuine ruby (not glass/synthetic). The pink stone is set in a raised, openwork flower. Back is similarly decoration with beautiful design , if not quite as rich. Original gaps for earlobes, but to facilitate the modern woman who does not have the hugely distended holes in her ears, a modern loop has been added (which does not compromise the original earring in any way). Good condition. Good antique Mughal / Indian jewellery combines the wonders of ages gone by with amazing design and delicacy executed by outstanding craftsmen and is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain as it grows in appreciation throughout the world. In her book on Indian earrings, pg 120, Waltraud Ganguly explains that these earrings, called Mundran, were originally worn by rich landowners. We can test up to 18K gold, but Ganguly explains that these are always 24 carats, which, along with the intricate workmanship made them very expensive. Due to their cost/value, they are not made any longer and even in previous centuries, were only worn on special occasions. Status: For Sale Reference#: 3933 Condition: good Year: 1890 Title: ANTIQUE 24K GOLD & RUBY EARRINGS 43.2 GRAMS OUTSTANDING

Antique and Vintage Jewelry
Antique Jewelry